“Qatar's relationship with books is old, dating back to the time of the founder late sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, who despite the difficult circumstances and the economic and political responsibilities attached great importance to books".

Under the theme of “Doha, A city of Knowledge and Consciousness” , the 29th edition of Doha International Book Fair has been launched, spotting light on the fact that Doha International Book Fair is not "a mere Selling Book Fair” and the theme is employed to emphasise the minister’s vision 'Towards a Conscious Society with Sound Conscience and Healthy Body'.

Russia is the guest of honour at the book fair, this year, attributing to the Qatar-Russia 2018 Year of Culture. A number of Russian houses, including Strelka Press, Eksmo, Garage publishing programme and Artemiy Lebedev Publishing House will present their publications among others. More information will be presented about the Russian publishing industry during the book fair focusing on the history of Russian literature, arts, and cultures. This will be manifested in a number of lectures, seminars, activities, and workshops.

The book fair is being attended by 427 publishers from 30 Arab and foreign countries and the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic is the first time to join this book fair as well as it’s the first time for Spain to participate by a publishing house for children. Meanwhile, the number of other publishers from Arab countries including Lebanon, Jordan and Morocco has been remarkably increased.

Moreover, a number of workshops, are organized to emphasise this year’s theme. Some of these workshops are “Reading …lifestyle”. "Using technology to support Arabic learning", as well as “how to make a good presentation”. These workshops will run simultaneously with a group of forums, lectures, and activities such as authors cafes, fine arts exhibitions, activities organized for children. Seminars will be held to explain the future of the international book fairs. In addition, during the book fair, some topics are being highlighted thoroughly including “Islamic Studies in Russia”, "Cultural renewal questions", and "Human dignity and coexistence".

It is worthy to highlight the dignitaries which highlight the event stressing the fact that Doha Book Fair is far away from being a mere selling book fair. Nonetheless, the book fair voices the necessity to “renew” our relationship with books.

The event is being held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre and will run till the 8th of December.